Thursday, January 31, 2008

President Gordon B. Hinckley

Mom and I wish to share a few thought about how we feel at the passing of our beloved prophet. To me it is as if a mighty oak (bent and bowed but reaching skyward) has gently been laid down to rest upon mother earth... and the hush... still rings through the forest. Pres. Hinckley has left a profound impression upon all of our lives. His leadership, ready smile, optimistic views ahead- with tender looks behind- have greatly moved the church forward. He had the rare gift of humor and candor, blended with the capacity to work and accomplish far more than men greatly younger in age. I remember when I first met him as an Apostle while on my mission in Hong Kong. Our mission President- Jerry Dean Wheat- was a very hard worker and concerned about the Churches image in Asia. He was a natty dresser and preferred bow ties and pin-striped suits. Our mission car was a Mercedes 450 SEL. I want to stress he was doing all he could to give the church a great image in Hong Kong.When Pres. Hinckley came to visit he had a conference with Pres. Wheat and the next day a subdued,humbler, and wiser Mission President announced that bow ties and pin striped suits weren't appropriate for missionaries. I am sure this meeting was held in a kind, gentle, but effective way. Pres. Hinckley was a doer! His Be Attitudes ( be Kind. etc.) were succinct reminders of good and important things. His appreciation of our past history brightened the road ahead. I believe it was Will & Ariel Durrant who said " Those who do not learn from the lessons of history are doomed to repeat it." His ability to fearlessly communicate spontaneously- and his keen sense of humor- was a joy to behold as revealed in interviews with Mike Wallace and Larry King. He has helped the Church to be seen broadly on a global stage. I am sure there has already been a joyous reunion with his beloved wife, parents and extended family. I also feel there has been a joyous accounting of his stewardship with all the prophets from before- with warm handshakes and hugs! Hail to the prophet ascended to Heaven!We thank Thee oh God for a Prophet!

I agree with everything you said dad, you said it beautifully! I'm so glad that I was raised to watch and love the prophet. I hope that my children feel the love for our new prophet as much as I did for Pres. Hinkley!

Thanks for sharing......I have loved hearing peoples thoughts and memories about our Prophet. I am so excited for Fast and testimony meeting tomorrow- I am sure they will all be powerful as many witness and testify of our Prophet! I am excited to feel this way abut another Prophet also!

About Me

What's Left

Having 8 kids and only 2 at home we are starting to feel like empty nesters

chillin' by the tree

Our Favorite Boys

Eli and Everett

mom's cool craft

Christmas Fun!

Here's a sample of mom's craft adventure with her sisters, mom, and Ali down in Eden. (Above North Ogden in the mountains)I'm not really sure what it is- but it is made out of coffee filters...just one of the many ubiquitous uses of the handy household items all Mormons should never do without. I recall Patsy saying they make great coasters for glasses also, as well as emergency fare for 72 hr. kits.Patsy said after crafting all day her mom was tired and came to bed. However, they stayed up 'til midnight because her mom kept talking. Sounds like a bunch of teenagers- not golden agers!The other picture is of mom and I snuggled up by the tree after being visited by the thundering horde (happy horde) of children and grandchildren after Sunday dinner. Culinary excellence was exhibited by dad with the gustatory delight of whole wheat Kefir French bread (eat your heart out) and thick homemade beef stew, all of which was totally consumed by the ravening raiders. Just another typical Sunday afternoon in the life of the Coon clan.Hmm... I seem to be having layout problems. I guess eventually I'll get the hang of it!